Looking West...

HoosierBoy

New Member
Dec 8, 2014
3
0
Northern Indiana
Hi all...I'm 24year old Indiana resident that has never hunted any western game, but have always dreamed of heading west to chase big mule deer. Was just seeking a lil help on what state or even areas in a state that I would have a chance at a decent deer(with a rifle) without having any PP, or if this is even possible without having PP? At this point in time I'm really just trying to narrow things down to where I should start looking. Also if there are any strategies behind the draws. This is my first post, and I don't want anyone thinking I'm just trying to take advantage of honest western hunters. Just looking for a lil insight on how things work, and seeing what I maybe up against. Any info would be very appreciated. God-bless and happy hunting....
 
Last edited:

Murdy

Active Member
Dec 13, 2011
359
0
North-Central Illinois
The MRS section in the back of Eastman's magazines provides a pretty detailed state-by-state break-down of what you need to do to draw. Worth subscribing to.
 

HoosierBoy

New Member
Dec 8, 2014
3
0
Northern Indiana
Will definitely look into Montana, and will also subscribe to Eastmans' magazine for the MRS section. Also I'm sure the magazine is full of amazing western hunting info. Thanks for the replies....
 

missjordan

Veteran member
Dec 9, 2014
1,136
22
Missoula, MT
Also recommend MT. There is a lot of general tag opportunities and areas that are easy to draw as well. If you would like some help let me know
 

HuskyMusky

Veteran member
Nov 29, 2011
1,337
183
IL
buy a point in WY for down the road...

Consider building points in CO, costs $$ but you get most of it back minus $50 or whatever.
 

Sawfish

Very Active Member
Jun 9, 2011
767
128
Peoples Republik of Kalifornia
Since you are a young man, you have time to accumulate enough points for one of the blue chip hunts. In the interim, check on the states where you can get an OTC, or sure thing drawing. This will take some research on states with undersubscribed areas. Build points, build your conditioning, build confidence in your shooting and glassing techniques, and you will be on your way to success.
 

Tim McCoy

Veteran member
Dec 15, 2014
1,855
4
Oregon
You have some real good suggestions already. But here is one a bit different. Just to the Northwest of you are a number of Reservations, SD/ND. Some do not require a guide, but the checkerboard land ownership does require a good map and some study. Maps are available through the Tribes. Most have good populations of Muledeer and WT. MD in the 150-170 range are there, as are WT of the same size. Most take smaller bucks, a few take larger ones, about like a good general season hunt in MT/WY etc. for MD, a real sleeper for WT. Possibly close enough to you to scout? Some seasons to 12/31. You can hunt the rut, I have seen MD and WT in this area rutting well into Dec. Good luck!
 

adamwipp

Member
Aug 9, 2011
68
0
Lodi wi
I would second buying preference points for colorado. With in 5 years you could draw a decent rifle tag. Also check into western Nebraska, tag is good for white tail and mule deer. Muzzle loader season is over the counter. There are no restrictions for muzzle loaders in Nebraska, so its almost like using a rifle. Nebraskas muzzy season is in December.